William Cottle

William Henry Cottle Jr.

January 1, 1944 – January 24, 2025

William Henry Cottle Jr., affectionately known as Bill, passed away peacefully in Tucson, on January 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving children and grandchildren. He was 81 years old.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Eva Cottle, his wife, Janice, his brother-in-law and nephew, Ed and Mike Rife, and grandsons, Shane and Jesse.

Born and raised in Akron Ohio, he remained a devoted fan of Ohio State, the Cleveland Guardians, and even the Browns, although he struggled to watch them at times. After joining the Navy and marrying the love of his life, Janice, he left Akron and together they began their great life adventures, taking in the beauty all around them, never missing all the great sites to see and family and friends to visit. They enjoyed their time overseas and all the places they called home along the way, finally landing on the Big Island after retiring in 2008. Together, they formed lifelong friendships that they both cherished throughout their lives.

Bill was known and loved for his quiet, yet witty nature, he loved to make others laugh, always sharing jokes and silly stories. He eventually enjoyed joining in several productions at the local Aloha Theater and the friendships he made there. He rarely missed a Sunday drive to take in the scenery and drive fast! He loved spending his days golfing wherever and whenever he could but cherished those Friday games in Kona and savoring a malasada before or after!

Bill was a devoted brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his sister, Nancy Rife, his four children: Kelly Stroud, Kirsten (Rick) Kattinge, Andrew (Stacey) Cottle, and John (Lulie) Cottle. His legacy continues through his grandchildren-Drew, Kayla, Cassie, Shane, Amber, Courtney, Christopher, AJ, Ivy, Jesse, Jade, Merlin, Obi, Kayla, Theo, and Anderson, his 22 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and all of his Island ohana-including Maile and Kona.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held on February 22nd, after an escort from the Patriot Guard to his home in Tucson, and at a later date in Kailua-Kona, where his ashes will be scattered in the waters he loved so much. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Bill's name to Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Ave, Montgomery AL, 36104.

He is loved and missed by so many!